6 Reasons You Need to Visit Santorini

Since I'm in Santorini, I consider the island to be one of the most beautiful places in the world. Each new corner seems more picturesque than the previous one and the images will never capture its haunting atmosphere. If you still want to add Santorini to your list, here are 7 reasons why you must visit the Greek island.

1. Because of the sunset in Oia

In addition, one of my favorite moments in Greece was watching the sunset in Santorini. It's the only sunset in the world that I've seen receiving applause once it has calmed down. Get off early though (at least half an hour) for a good location. Crowds can be a bit of a nightmare and the last thing you want is to run to find a place, dodging the photos while trying to take your own photos before the sun disappears (done, done that).

2. Because you can go around the island in quad

There are many ways to get around the island: rent a car, a mountain bike, a taxi or a bus. However, taxis can be expensive and buses give you less flexibility. The roads are usually paved, narrow and Greek drivers are crazy (but extremely talented), which forces us to rent an ATV. Renting an ATV, also known as quad biking, is the most popular and popular way to get around the island, especially thanks to the steep hills and the heat that makes it a hard task to get to the point A at point B. Plus, it's so much fun, promise.

Depending on the season, the size and type of your ATV, it will cost you 25 to 40 euros for 24 hours. More about 8-10 euros per day for fuel, based on a 200cc MTB.

It's a wonderful and fun way to see the island at your leisure and at your own pace. To do absolutely in Santorini, make sure you have your driving license with you.

3. Because you can wine and dine with a view

With a breathtaking view of the Aegean Sea and the Caldera, Santorini will surpass all your expectations of "dinner with a view" with the landscape around you.

If you are looking for restaurants that combine heavenly views with delicious cuisine, the most popular restaurants are Ambrosia, 1800 and Lauda in Oia, Archipel and V Lounge in Fira and the Kapari Wine Restaurant in Imerovigli.

4. Because of the unique beaches

Santorini is not known for its beaches. So do not expect the typical sight of white sand and crystal clear waters that you usually associate with Greece. The beaches are volcanic and not white sand. It is therefore red or black rocks, pebbles or gravel and they are very hot feet. However, this makes them unique and some prefer them to the typical white sand beach, which makes them well worth visiting. Here are some tips I would recommend.

Red Beach: The famous beach of Santorini. There are black and red volcanic pebbles instead of sand and hot water. Make sure to wear closed shoes (no flip flops or sandals) as the meeting place can be slippery and the sand becomes extremely hot.

5. Because you can go jump to the cliff in Amoudi Bay

From Ammoudi Bay to Oia, take the steps down to the water from the road and follow the signs for "Ammoudi Bay". Once you have reached the water, turn left and continue until you see a seafood restaurant. Keep following the path that passes in front of the restaurant and at the turn. You will eventually reach a small rocky cliff on your right, to which you will have to swim. A staircase is located at the back of the cliff, away from the city.

You can pass from different places on the cliff if you do not want to linger at the highest point. The waters are absolutely beautiful there. this!

6. Because of the nightlife in Fira

Although Santorini is not a Mykonos or Ios party, it still offers a vibrant nightlife, mostly concentrated in Fira. The Franco bar is known for its classical music at sunset. Those who want to hear Greek music go to Club 33. The Koo Club is probably the most popular club in Santorini and plays progressive, sweet, house, trance and Greek music. The Highlander is the only Scottish bar on the island, but the music ranges from traditional pop and rock to the rhythms of trance and dance. The Enigma bar offers three rooms (with separate bars) where you can dance all night or lie in their outdoor courtyard.

Many bars and clubs offer happy hour offers to attract visitors early, but during the high season (July to August) entertainment and crowds do not begin after midnight. So make sure you do not get lost.

7 Best Things to Do in Bali

I have traveled extensively throughout Southeast Asia, but there is no island that looks like Bali.

From the fragrant incense of the "sari canang" (the Balinese Hindu offering) that invades the streets to the vibrant magical island that permeates the highland beaches, Bali has always held a special place in my heart since I planted feet on this enchanting land more than ten years ago.

Bali is one of the few islands to offer unlimited activities: surfing, snorkeling, temples jumping, volcano trekking, rice paddling, shopping, diving, waterfall hunting, and much more .

Whether you enjoy cultural experiences or outdoor adventures, Bali is your ultimate dream come true.

1. Snorkeling or dive with mantas

On my first trip to Bali in 2009, I had never done scuba diving in my life.

But since this trip was my first solo travel experience and I was in an adventurous spirit, I decided to try it!

You can not imagine the thrill and joy that came over me when I saw gigantic manta rays flying over my head during my first test dive! I was blown away and speechless. After this incredible meeting, I became obsessed with scuba diving!

In Nusa Penida, off Bali, there is a cleaning station called Manta Point, where the ocean rays of the manta can be seen almost all year round.

The Manta ocean rays, which can be up to 7 meters long, can be seen almost year-round off Bali at a cleaning station called Manta Point on the Nusa Penida coast.

As mantas often approach the surface, divers, like snorkelers, can swim with manta rays. Do not miss this unforgettable encounter. Seeing this majestic animal is definitely one thing you want to add to your list of things to do in Bali! You can book a day trip to

Bali Nusa Penida or head to one of the Nusa Islands (Lembongan, Ceningan, Penida) for a snorkeling or diving package.

2. White sand beach in Nyang Nyang

There are countless beaches in Bali, from white sand to black sand and everything in between.

But my favorite beach in Bali is Nyang Nyang Beach in Uluwatu.

This pristine white sand beach is one of the best places to visit in Bali when you want to spend time on the beach.

Despite the powdery white sand, the turquoise blue sea and the beautiful landscape, very few tourists come to the southern tip of the island. It's like having a private beach for you.

The long shore is also fantastic for a peaceful walk.

If you want to escape the mass tourism of the nearby town of Kuta / Legian / Nusa Dua and enjoy a relaxing day at the beach, go to Nyang Nyang! I went there in high season and I always found the beach empty of big crowds.

If you have time, take a look at Nunggalan's twin beach, a short walk from the road. It's just as beautiful and secluded, and you can also find an abandoned wreck that is famous for Instagrammers!

3. Blue Lagoon on Nusa Ceningan

Off the east coast of Bali is a small island called Nusa Ceningan.

After a short 30-minute ferry ride to Lembongan Island and a scooter ride to Ceningan Island, you'll come across a breathtaking blue water horizon that you've never seen before.

There are several scenic spots on Ceningan, but Blue Lagoon throws all the rest of the water.

The different shades of blue that surround this coast of Ceningan range from light blue to azure blue, and you will be fascinated by the blue lagoon panorama. I had never seen such beautiful colors!

While the blue lagoon has become quite touristy in the last two years, you will not regret waiting for an opportunity to take pictures in this beautiful cliffside location.

This is undoubtedly the most photogenic point on the island - I spent 2 hours taking pictures in all directions.

However, be sure to take sunscreen as the tropical sun is extremely hot and there are no shades around the Blue Lagoon.

4. Tukad Cepung Waterfall

If you have trouble deciding which of the 20 waterfalls in Bali you should visit, the Tukad Cepung waterfall is the one you will not want to miss.

After an easy 15-minute hike along a paved path, down a shallow stream and rock climbing, you'll come across a breathtaking view of a ray of sunshine and a waterfall cascading into the water. unison in a cave.

Looking inside the cave, you will be amazed by the beauty of this incredible nature.

5. Shipwreck at Tulamben

This sinking is particularly popular because it is just 30 meters from the shore, making it accessible to snorkelers and novice divers to explore this magnificent historical artifact.

You can simply walk in the water of the beach to the shallow sinking of the island!

USAT Liberty is not only an interesting dive site with a wreck to explore, but it has also become home to various forms of marine life, including turtles, bats, garden eels, parrots, lollipops, groupers and many other species.

Sinking is one of my favorite dive sites in Bali!

• Note that if you finish snorkeling, you can see a small part of the sinking but will not be able to see the whole site. For a better view of the USAT Liberty, I recommend you sign up for a test dive that will allow you to explore a maximum depth of 12 meters (if not already a certified diver). Believe me, it's worth it

6. Soak in a natural pool

You can admire beautiful sunsets all along the west coast of Bali, but there is a special beach called Tegal Wangi which offers shallow pools where you can immerse yourself at low tide.

Tegal Wangi is a little known beach of the west coast. So you can enjoy a private and romantic vision of the spectacular orange shades of the sky at sunset, while enjoying a natural hot tub.

The Tegal Wangi rock formations have a unique shape the size of a Jacuzzi. Thus, when the tide goes out, water accumulates in the rocky "pockets", forming a natural pond.

Immerse yourself in this rocky jacuzzi while the horizon glows at sunset is a unique experience!

Although Tegal Wangi is not much noticed by tourists, it is populated by locals at sunset. Come early to the golden hour to enjoy the best opportunities to take pictures.

Discover this hidden gem on your next trip to Bali - you will not regret it!

If you plan to spend the day at Tegal Wangi, know that there are no shops on the beach. Take everything you need for a day at the beach, such as drinks, snacks, towels, etc.

7. UNESCO World Heritage Site in Jatiluwih

When you think of Bali, you can imagine a vast field of green rice terraces and tall palm trees scattered all over the horizon.

Although rice terraces are ubiquitous in Bali, from the famous Tegallalang to the remote highlands of Pupuan, what I loved about Jatiluwih's rice terraces is access to three paved hiking trails through the site. Unesco World Heritage.

The trails allow you to easily immerse yourself in the vast horizon of rice terraces perfectly carved without disturbing the rice fields or falling into the cracks!

Jatiluwih is a vast horizon of perfectly sculpted terraced rice fields that extend as long as you see it.

The panoramic view of the rice fields is guaranteed to amaze you!

The panoramic view of the rice fields of Jatiliwih is truly unique.

7 Best Things to Do in Dublin Ireland

If you have the chance to visit Ireland, you will probably start in Dublin. Here are our recommendations for the main things to do in Dublin, from our four different tours to one of our favorite cities on the planet.

Dublin is the capital of the nation and it is a city filled with culture, beauty and history.

We have been to Dublin four times and plan to go back!

The first visit to Dublin was the start of the road along the Wild Atlantic Way and the last was the start of our trip to Northern Ireland.

We never tire of the energy and culture of the city and are always looking for new and unusual things to do in Dublin. This list will help you make the most of your next visit to the Irish capital.

1. Guinness store

A trip to Dublin would not be complete without the taste of authentic Guinness.

It tastes better in Ireland!

The Guinness Storehouse is the number one place to visit in Dublin. Literally. Millions of visitors visited the brewery and enjoyed more than a pint or two. And it's worth it!

It took a few visits before we finally got there and we should have done it sooner.

Covering 15 acres, the Guinness Factory is an important part of Dublin and its history.

It's amazing to walk around the area to learn that Guinness has provided housing and jobs for most Dubliners.

The tour is very interesting to learn how Guinness is made, but more importantly, it ends with a pint of beer at the rooftop bar which offers one of the best views in Dublin.

2. Learn how to pour a perfect pint

While you're at the Guinness Storehouse, take a look at the Guinness experience, where you'll learn how to pour the perfect Guinness pint into the Guinness Bar and tasting room.

Once you have poured the perfect waterfall, you will get a certificate attesting to your Guinness certification and you will get a delicious pint of Guinness!

It's really a must in Dublin. This will make you a Guinness snob in pubs around the world for the rest of your life!

3. Small Museum of Dublin

We do not usually have many museums, but we loved this little one. I would put it on my list of a must-see museum in Dublin.

It houses a collection provided by the public and donated by a Dublin resident. Stroll through its four floors of Dublin's history that are original and unique. It contains everything from old press articles from Ireland's first independent office (which is also there!) To portraits of celebrities and famous Irish politicians, including antique telephones, turntables and typewriters. .

4. Sweny

The apothecary of Sweny is a really cool shop with medicines, photographs and prescriptions from the beginning of the 19th century.

This pharmacy is the current pharmacy described in James Joyce's Ulysses. They have daily readings of James Joyce and sell the famous lemon soap that made the shop famous.

If you are looking for more activities in non touristic Dublin, this is it. I felt like a cool hipster coming into the store to talk about all of Joyce's things.

Volunteers can tell you many stories about Joyce, the story of Dublin, and you can buy a nice souvenir to take home.

5. Newman University Church

Our guide has taken us to a hidden gem that even many Dubliners do not know, but it's really something you need to see in Dublin.

The Newman University Church is a small but beautiful and quiet church. It is filled with colorful patterns, lattices and paintings.

As a non-religious person myself, I have trouble explaining what I see in a church and I am no different from the Newman University Church.

All I know is that it was beautiful and it was a nice stop on our walking tour. See more at the university church.

6. Gaelic Games Museum

One of the best ways to immerse yourself in Irish culture is to get involved in their national sports!

At Croke Park, the Gaelic Games Museums are a walk through the history of Gaelic games.

It's also one of those Dublin attractions that make you feel like a child again.

The immersive museum is also very fun when you try your skills and learn how to play hurling.

7. Croke Park Sky Walk

If you're wondering what to do in Dublin, Ireland, which offers a bit of adrenaline and excitement, the Croke Park Skywalk is the perfect tour for you.

Croke Park is the third largest stadium in Europe and you will ride where only technicians dare to go around its scaffolding and roof.

The rooftop ride takes you up to 44 meters high for a bird's eye view of the throwing field and stunning panoramic views of the city of Dublin, Ireland.

In addition, you will have a glimpse behind the scenes and private rooms of athletes and you can even go on the field.

Best Things to Do in Dublin Ireland:

15 Most Beautiful Islands in the World

If you saw her on a postcard, she is on that list. Beaches, bays, rocks and blowholes. Caves, coves, cliffs and culture. Ruins, reefs, rainforests and rum. Whatever your version of paradise, these 15 islands around the world offer an attraction for the eyes. Prepare to be blown away by the most beautiful islands in the world.

Capri, Italy

Who was not fascinated by the images of Capri's electric blue cave? This sparkling marine grotto impresses even seasoned globetrotters - and this is just the beginning of the wonders of the island. Ash white limestone cliffs, hidden beach pieces, an imposing natural arch: it is not surprising that Capri has been a tourism hub since the ancient times of Rome. Tip: Climb to the ruins of Emperor Tiberius' villa Jovis, around 27 AD. BC, for a breathtaking view.

Whitsundays, Australia

The delicate coral reef is the largest coral reef system on the planet. It is home to more than 1,600 species of fish, as well as whales, rays, octopuses, dolphins and more. The 74 Whitsunday Islands are nestled in the heart of this world wonder, with the exception of four of them, which are protected national parks. Relax in luxury at an upscale resort like Hamilton Island and book a seaplane or helicopter flight to see sites like Heart Reef and the silica peat sands of Hill Inlet in Whitehaven Beach.

Bali, Indonesia

What's more amazing in Bali - dazzling beaches like Nusa Dua, Seminyak and Jimbaran Bay? The rice terraces of Ubud, the sacred forest and the ancient monuments? Or the island's 10,000 complex temples, including Pura Empul (the one you're bathing in) and the Uluwatu Sea Temple? Discover all the above and decide for yourself. Land of the Gods also has a beauty beyond the skin, thanks to its warm people and its ubiquitous and inclusive spirituality.

James Bond Island, South Thailand

A spectacular limestone peak in the emerald waters of Phang Nga Bay, James Bond Island (Koh Tapu - Nail Island in Thai) takes its name from its appearance in two films from 007: The Man with Golden Cannon (1974) and Tomorrow Never Dies (1997). Tours depart from the famous seaside resorts of Phuket, Khao Lak and Krabi aboard photogenic boats. During the visit, explore secret lagoons, steep caves and a floating village.

Kauai, Hawaii

The splendor of Kauai, nicknamed the Garden Island, extends from its vermilion Waimea Canyon, which dives to 3,600 feet, to its rugged cliffs of Napali, which extends over 4,000 feet. Often dotted with sleepy monk seals, Poipu Beach on Kauai Island is on Dr. Beach's list of the best beaches in America. Rivers, rainforests and waterfalls fill the interior; do not miss a photo opportunity of Wailua Falls, featured in the opening credits of Fantasy Island, aired from 1977 to 1984.

Bora Bora, the islands of Tahiti

All shades of blue imaginable manifest themselves in the lagoon of Bora Bora, ie the jewel of the South Seas. Coral motus rings like a sand belt on the main island, and below the surface dolphins, rays, sharks, turtles and multicolored fish gather. The mossy green volcanic summit of Mount Otemanu, where God descended on the island under a rainbow, according to local traditions, presides over everything. Dancers with timeless grass skirts and exotic overwater bungalows complete the sublime scene.

Seychelles

The imposing rocks of the Seychelles are a pillar of desktop computers, but they are more than aesthetic: they also fascinate geologists, who have described Seychelles as the only medium-altitude islands made of granite. Other superlatives: The archipelago is the oldest on the planet and its air is the purest. Naturally, celebrities flock here; if you want to spend a holiday at British royalty, stay on the North Island, where Prince William and Kate Middleton spent their 2011 honeymoon.

Santorini, Greece

Perhaps the location of the beautiful island of Atlantis, Santorini is full of screensavers and wall calendars. The red, black and white sandy beaches line its caldera lake - one of the largest in the world - while emblematic whitewashed buildings rise along the hill overlooking the Aegean Sea. Photo opportunities abound, from centuries-old windmills to ancient ruins, blue-domed churches and colorful fishing boats. Stay in a cave boutique hotel for a complete experience.

Saint Lucia, Caribbean

Nicknamed "The Helena of the West" (an allusion to the beauty of Helen of Troy), Saint Lucia is struck by its characteristic feature: the twin Pitons, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Rising to 500-meter heights, voluptuous volcanic spiers complete the island's other attractions, including the lush jungle, sparkling silver sand beaches, the sugar plantation ruins and a mineral-rich natural mud bath. . Jade Mountain, the most famous seaside resort on the island, is a true architectural gem.

Fiji

Fiji, a splendor without a future, is the dream of a filmmaker. Spy his chain of islands Mamanuca in Cast Away and Survivor; ogle his Yasawa archipelago in the 1980 version of Blue Lagoon. A dizzying array of natural beauties - from mountains to mangroves, rivers and reefs - stretches across the 333 islands of Fiji and the impressive wildlife (whales, sea turtles, dolphins, parrots) is the cherry on the cake. For landscapes combining luxury and exclusivity, book a villa in one of the many seaside resorts of Fiji.

Big Island, Hawaii

The island of Hawaii (ie the Big Island) includes 10 of the 14 climatic zones of the world - the only place on the planet that has so many condensed sites in a small area. Lush tropical terrain dominates the green, wet and windy side of the island (see Akaka Falls and Waianuenue / Rainbow Falls), while a more arid beauty is visible at Hapuna Beach Park. You can even get into an icy climate at the mystical summit of the Mauna Kea volcano, as well as Lake Waiau, one of the highest lakes in the United States.

Maldives

With the largest number of seaside resorts in the world (more than 75), the Maldives know that its best asset is the abundant and clear water of the Indian Ocean. When you do not snorkel or watch the rich marine life through the windows of your waterfront villa, continue to enjoy the underwater show while dining at the 5.8 Undersea restaurant, or even making yourself pamper yourself in the submerged spa of Huvafen Fushi.

Palawan, Philippines

Palawan is not one but two UNESCO World Heritage sites: Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park (wearing your diving gear) and Puerto Princesa Underground River National Park (guided canoe tour) . Striking limestone formations, such as Ugong Rock and Karst Mountain Elephant Cave, emerge from the rice paddies of the interior. You can even find overwater bungalows on remote islands with the kind permission of El Nido Resorts.

Hvar, Croatia

With a history dating back to the Stone Age, Hvar is as fascinating as it is beautiful. Thirteenth-century city walls surround the town of Hvar, with its red-tiled roofs, and the ancient stone ruins of the Stari Grad Plain became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2008. A getaway inside reveals rugged mountains, lush vineyards and scented lavender fields. Embark on a boat trip on the Adriatic for snorkelling, swimming in sea caves and strolling along secret beaches and seaside hamlets.

Most Beautiful Islands in the World:

10 Vital Italy Travel Tips You Need To Know

I was born in Italy and, although I now consider myself a citizen of the world, I think that Italy is one of the most beautiful countries you will visit.

From the delicious food to the spectacular story, there is so much to do and see that it's easy to get lost.

Whether you are planning your first visit to Italy or traveling on a regular basis, you should definitely know some things that will make your trip to Italy easier.

Italians are lovely and warm people, but they tend to be very traditional in certain habits.

And by following these tips, I'm sure you'll have a great time in Italy!

1. There is a time for coffee

Italians love their coffee. But there is an ideal time in the day to drink it.

You never drink coffee during a meal. But you can have coffee after a meal.

Cappuccino is only for breakfast and you should never drink it after 11:00. If you ask for a cappuccino after a meal in the restaurant, or worse, with a meal, do not be surprised if you look like you're coming from Mars.

Latte in Italian means milk, so if you order a latte in a bar, you'll just have a glass of hot milk ... not very exciting. If you want what you call a latte, you have to order a latte.

2. Go only to restaurants that display menus in Italian

We gave this tip to many friends and they told us it was the best travel tip for eating well in Italy.

This trick works mainly if you plan to go to popular tourist places, such as Rome, Florence, Venice or the Cinque Terre.

And it only works there, because nowhere else in Italy will you ever find an English menu!

Although the food in Italy is simply amazing, you can still find places that serve awful food. If you want to eat really good Italian food, avoid at all costs restaurants that display an English menu outside (especially if they have food photos too!).

You may be tempted to go because you will see dishes that you know well or that you think at least understand what are the ingredients.

Do not forget this: the best Italian cuisine can only be found in restaurants offering Italian menus.

3. Do not ask for tap water in a restaurant

Or ... I should say: you can ask for it, but you will not get it!

In Italy, restaurants will always serve bottled water, and if you ask for tap water, you'll get a horrible look. Most places just will not give it to you and will charge you only bottles of bottled water.

You are much better drinking wine. In addition, you are in Italy anyway and the wine tastes better than water.

If you want cheap wine but good, always ask for "vino della casa". It normally comes in half-liter jugs or a liter and it's local.

4. And always find an excuse to eat ice cream

The most famous ice cream in the world is Italian ice cream, and there is a reason for that! It's just amazing and you can not stop eating it!

So there is no reason to resist! Go at any time of the day. You can have an ice cream for breakfast, after lunch, a morning or afternoon snack or after dinner.

All the time is good for gelato in Italy!

5. Ciao is not for everyone

Everyone knows Ciao, but remember that Ciao is a very informal way to say hello. When entering stores or greeting seniors, be sure to use them properly

• Buongiorno (hello)
• Buona Sera (good evening)

Some other words to remember are:

• Grazie (thanks)
• No capisco (I do not understand)

And you should only say Bravo to men. If you want to rent a woman, do not forget to say Brava!

6. Greet everyone with two kisses (or three ...)

Even if you barely know someone, do not be surprised if two kisses greet you on the cheeks.

Italians are very warm and affectionate people and they are used to kissing someone. Sometimes you will find that the youngest ones even go for three kisses!

But certainly not one!

7. Be aware of "riposino"

Most Italian shops will close for lunch. If you try to go shopping between 1pm and 4pm in Italy, you might as well make a riposino yourself, as you will not find many places open for business.

This can be annoying for you, especially if you live in a busy city, but if you visit the Italian countryside you will have to get used to this way of life. Italians always think that lunch is an important part of the day and they will go home to enjoy a good meal and relax during the hottest hours of the day.

8. Trains follow their own schedule

The trains have massively improved in recent years in Italy. There are impressive modern high-speed trains that connect major cities such as Milan, Venice, Florence, Rome and Naples.

But if you move to less touristy or more rural cities, especially in southern Italy, do not be surprised by the delays.

Allow enough time to get to the right place, especially if you take a train to the airport. Also check if the train is stuck, as this could affect your travel plans.

9. Never go to Italy in August

The month of August is the summer vacation month of Italians, many companies are closed, schools are closed and many Italians will leave the cities to go on vacation.

• You will find a lot of closed shops, even in big cities like Rome and Florence. Especially some of the most authentic shops.
• If you decide to visit the most beautiful beaches of Italy, in regions like Sicily or Sardinia, everything will be cluttered and expensive and the service will not be as good as if you go there in June or September.
• In August, it can be very hot in Italy, and if you want to visit the country, it might be quite tiring to walk around.

If you have a choice, try to avoid the month of August at any cost and opt for other off-season months such as April, May or October.

10. Always have money with you

Most hotels and great restaurants accept credit cards, but it's still pretty normal in Italy to pay cash in many restaurants and small shops.

Make sure you always have money on you to pay for your meals or purchases, especially if you plan to buy food at the market.

Vital Italy Travel Tips: